Beautiful rolling hills and woods surround star-shaped Lake Murphysboro
and provide a wonderful backdrop for boating, fishing, picnicking,
camping and hiking. This 1,022-acre state park has been used by people
since pre-historic Native Americans lived in small, temporary camps and
hunted big game. Interest in the area as a public recreational park
began in the 1930s with the State of Illinois buying the land for the
Division of Fisheries in 1948. The 145-acre lake with 7.5 miles of
shoreline was created in 1950 with the creation of a 600-foot dam across
Indian Creek. Soon after its completion, Lake Murphysboro was stocked
with breeder-size and yearling-size largemouth bass. In the fall of
1951, redear sunfish were introduced, followed by bluegill the next
spring. Channel catfish are also frequently stocked. To maintain a
healthy fish population, submerged vegetation and water draw-downs are
used to keep the number of small panfish down. In 1955 the land was
transferred to the Division of Parks and Memorials in 1955 and today is
maintained as a state park by the Illinois Department of Natural
Resources. Fishing is one of the primary attractions of Lake Murphysboro
State Park. Anglers can fish from the bank, on the water, or a
handicapped accessible fishing pier. Boaters can bring their own boat or
rent one near the boat launch. The outboard motor limit is 10
Horsepower. A concession stand near the boat docks offers a variety of
supplies and refreshments.

There are a number of shaded picnic areas located in convenient
locations around the lake. For larger groups there are two shelter
houses. There are well-equipped campsites located in scenic areas of the
park providing the perfect opportunity for extended stays. There are 54
trailer sites that are equipped with electricity and 20 Class B tent
sites. There are three Class A handicapped sites and one Class B/S
handicapped site available. A three-mile designated trail offers hikers
the opportunity to enjoy the plant, animal and bird life of the park up
close. The wooded hills include groves of majestic oak and hickory
trees, as well as most other types of trees. Patches of native, wild
orchids may be found in the wooded areas of the park. Yellow Lady's
Slipper, Showy, Purple Fringeless, Twayblade, Puttyroot, Coralroot and
Ladies' Tresses are just some of the varieties to watch for. The variety
of orchids makes it possible to find blooming plants throughout the
year. For those who prefer to explore nature on their own, several paths
crisscross through the hills and woods of the park. Lake Murphysboro
also includes an archery range located in the northwest section of the
park.

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